FW: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Corvette Thunder in the Glen Festival: May 15-16
Casey Creamer
This will interest some of you.
From: Michaela Christensen [mailto:eve...@watkinsglen.com]
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2026 8:00 AM
Subject: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Corvette Thunder in the Glen Festival: May 15-16
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Corvette Thunder in the Glen Returns May 15–16 to Celebrate 73 Years of America’s Sports Car
Free Saturday festival features hundreds of Corvettes, live music, family activities, and historic parade laps
WATKINS GLEN, NY — Corvette enthusiasts and motorsports fans will gather in the heart of the Finger Lakes this spring for the return of Corvette Thunder in the Glen, taking place Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Watkins Glen. Presented by Elm Chevrolet and hosted by Watkins Glen Promotions, the two-day celebration honors the legacy of the iconic Chevrolet Corvette and its deep connection to the birthplace of American road racing.
The year 2026 marks the 73rd anniversary of the Corvette, first designed by Harley J. Earl, chief stylist at General Motors. Earl drew inspiration from attending the 1951 races in Watkins Glen, and just two years later the first Corvette thrilled spectators at the Glen, quickly earning its nickname as “America’s Sports Car,” thus making Watkins Glen known as “the Birthplace of the Corvette.”
The weekend celebration kicks off Friday evening at Seneca Events Center with a sunset cocktail reception overlooking Seneca Lake. The special meet-and-greet dinner will feature legendary Corvette Racing driver Ron Fellows as the guest of honor. Fellows will share stories from his career and participate in a Q&A session with attendees. Due to overwhelming demand, the Friday evening event is officially sold out.
On Saturday, the celebration expands into a full community festival as downtown Watkins Glen comes alive with hundreds of Corvettes on display, including a special Generations of Corvette showcase on the Courthouse Lawn.
Spectators can enjoy:
- Hundreds of classic and modern Corvettes throughout downtown
- Live music performances
- A family activity zone
- Food trucks and specialty vendors
- Local shops and restaurants open throughout the village
- Parade laps of the historic Watkins Glen Grand Prix circuit beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Best of all, Saturday’s festivities are completely free for spectators, making it a perfect outing for families, car enthusiasts, and visitors to the Finger Lakes region.
Hosted by Watkins Glen Promotions, Corvette Thunder in the Glen continues to grow as a celebration of speed, style, and the lasting connection between the Corvette and Watkins Glen. “This event celebrates the incredible legacy of the Corvette and its connection to Watkins Glen,” said Event Chair Tony Vickio. “From the stunning display of cars downtown to the historic parade laps through the village, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.”
For Corvette owners interested in displaying their vehicles, both Classic and Premium participation packages are available. Spectator admission on Saturday is free.
For event details and registration information, visit the Corvette Thunder in the Glen page at watkinsglen.com.
Media Contact:
Michaela Christensen, Director
Watkins Glen Promotions
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